TOMNET is dedicated to creating a space where older men can find a renewed sense of purpose in retirement through strong connections and meaningful activities.
Helping to reduce social isolation, TOMNET provides opportunities to stay active, form lasting friendships and maintain a sense of belonging by fostering a community built on mateship.
Volunteering with TOMNET is more than just giving time, it’s about bringing people together and gaining a sense of fulfilment and purpose by making a difference to others.
Whether it’s mentoring young people in schools or childcare centres, supporting older men in aged care, helping at community barbecues, or simply lending a listening ear, TOMNET volunteers play a vital role in strengthening communities.
Angus and Ken discovered that through volunteering, social events and shared activities, retirement is a time not just for rest, but for new adventures and friendships.
Stories from TOMNET Volunteers
Angus
The Older Men’s Network caught my attention when I retired because of the diverse opportunities it offered to get involved in the community.
My volunteering journey with TOMNET began at a local school, where three times a week I helped refugee students improve their English and language skills, a program that TOMNET proudly supports.
I feel truly privileged to be part of their lives and to contribute, even in small ways, to their learning and growth helping to expand their horizons.
Through TOMNET, I discovered my passion for supporting youth through volunteer work.
With time and experience, I now have the privilege of mentoring disadvantaged youth at the Flexi School here in Toowoomba. Making a difference in these young people’s lives is incredibly rewarding, and I feel fortunate to have found these opportunities.
Apart from the reward of working with young people, I’ve also enjoyed cooking barbecues, attending meetings and connecting with many men facing similar life transitions.
Ken
Volunteering has been an incredibly fulfilling journey for me. TOMNET has given me the perfect place to put my skills to good use, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Once a month I visit older men at two aged care facilities in Toowoomba where I cook a barbecue, share a meal and we enjoy each other’s company.
It’s always great to see the fellas, and knowing how much they appreciate the contact makes the experience even more rewarding.
I do love a good chat, so I also regularly check in on TOMNET members through regular phone calls.
Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of cooking at countless TOMNET and community barbecues. With our barbecue trailer, we can easily set up and serve, making every event a fantastic way to connect with others and give back.
Getting involved in helping others isn’t hard. I hope more people step forward to volunteer as the benefits go both ways.
Maybe one day, when I slow down, there’ll be volunteers checking in on me, sharing a chat, and making sure I’m doing okay.
For now, I’ll keep doing what I love – listening to stories, having a yarn and making a difference in the lives of other fellas.
Want to Connect with TOMNET?
TOMNET (Main Office) is located in Toowoomba, Qld
They also have groups located in Gatton, Laidley, Glenore Grove, Oakey, Clifton.
Hours: Monday to Thursday | 8.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Closed public holidays
Phone: 07 4638 9080